Admissions Policy Review

The Minister for Education, Helen McEntee has requested that all school should consult with stakeholders regarding their Admissions Policy.

We are now inviting feedback from parents and guardians on the proposed updates to the policy. These updates aim to:

• Clarify the admissions process for our ASD special class;

• Ensure all applications are treated fairly and transparently;

• Reflect national policy on inclusive education and school capacity.

• Circular reference updated:
• 2023: No specific circular referenced
• 2025: Added compliance with Circular 0039/2025.
• Reference to updated diagnostic manuals:
• 2023: DSM IV/V or ICD 10
• 2025: Updated to include ICD 10/11 for autism diagnosis criteria.
• Special Educational Needs section expanded:
• 2025: Clearer and more detailed requirements for reports supporting an application to the special class (e.g., specific recommendation for special class placement, NCSE confirmation letter).

• 2025: Sibling priority is now the first criterion, aligning with mainstream criteria.
• 2025: Emphasis that special class applications are considered independently of mainstream waiting lists.

• 2025: The section on refusal in exceptional circumstances now explicitly clarifies that these do not apply to cases involving special educational needs, as such cases are addressed via NCSE processes.

• Added clarity on:
• Handling of applicants seeking to repeat a year (2025 includes this specifically)
• Reiteration of must reach 12 years old by 1 January requirement
• Statement that offers may not be deferred to the next academic year (previously in addendum; now integrated).6 Late Applications
• 2025: Clear reference that late applicants, even those already enrolled or local, cannot be prioritised over those on the regular waiting list.

• Enhanced wording to align with updated legal requirements and good practice in equality, data protection, and cooperation with NCSE.

📘 The draft updated Admissions Policy can be viewed [here].

You are invited to submit any comments or suggestions by Thursday 3rd July 2025.

Please send your feedback to:
📧 reception@ballymakennycollege.ie

We value your input and thank you for helping us ensure that our policies reflect the needs of all members of the school community.